I have to share an amazing system for those students that need a little incentive for their behavior that works like a video game. The student knows exactly what to expect, and there are no surprises with this system. It works great for students who need routine and structure, and nothing else works.
Here are the main ideas, and you can tweak it as you wish.
1. Get a TIMER!!! Set it for 15 minutes (or less) at first. Then as the behavior intervention starts working, set it for more time as the child improves behavior.
2. Use one of those sticker charts with rows and columns. Or create one with one row if the child is more visual.
3. Explain to the student they have three strikes during each time interval. If they get 2 or less, they may have the incentive. Whether it is a job, a prize, etc. They will get that (little) prize. It has to be something that has been discussed prior because the student will know exactly what to expect.
4. If the child has 3 strikes, they will spend the remainder of the timer in time out. When the timer beeps, they may come back. I give my kids control of the timer, because it has that video game effect. They know exactly when they are allowed to return to the group. I teach them how to reset it, and where the timer is placed when they are ready to “reset.” (Usually right on top of the chart)
Tips and tricks:
- Get a timer with big numbers so the student can see when the time is going to be up.
- Be sure you know what the student likes. The prizes do not have to cost you any money. I use classroom jobs often with this incentive.
- Have an incentive for the student when they reach a goal of 5, 10, or 15 stickers on the chart. Perhaps they can lead the pledge, calendar, or even have dessert with the teacher.
- The 15 minutes is very intense at first and it feels like you are setting a timer all day. Do not worry! It does get better. By the second week, I can usually start setting the timer for 30 minutes, then 45, then an hour.
- This is an intervention. If you feel the student does not need the intervention anymore, try weaning off the timer, and go by periods. The goal for the student is to regulate his/her behavior, so when you feel it is not needed, take it away and see how things go.
If you have any additional questions about this, or you have a great intervention, please feel free to share! If you would like more ideas from me, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Teachers Pay Teachers to stay posted with more from me!
